The agent of Ipswich Town target Rodolph Austin has revealed that the Jamaica midfielder may not be allowed to sign for an English club due to tighter work permit rules.

The EADT and Ipswich Star revealed last week that the Blues were one of six clubs vying for the signature of the free agent, who was released by Leeds United at the end of last season.

Sheffield Wednesday – backed by their new Thai owners – were reportedly leading the chase, with Middlesbrough, Nottingham Forest, Wolves and Bolton having also been linked.

However, the 30-year-old – who skippered the Reggae Boyz in Sunday’s Gold Cup Final 3-1 defeat to Mexico – could face frustration due to the FA tightening the rules relating to foreign players’ work permits.

Austin’s agent Darryl Powell told Kicca.com: “Rudy has spent the summer playing in the Copa America and then helping Jamaica get to the Gold Cup final.

“He has proved himself as a genuine top Championship performer, there were six big clubs who wanted to sign him.

“But we found out yesterday that the new rules mean they won’t allow him a new work permit, which has been a big disappointment.

“His son was born here, Rudy only had two years to stay before he qualified for citizenship and he really wanted to stay and make a life in Britain.

“But there is nothing we can do about it with these new rules. It’s just a shame he has been caught up in them.”

Austin, who previously played in Norway with Brann, is now reportedly considering offers from clubs in Turkey and in the MLS.